When bikers lose one of their own, a good send-off is almost guaranteed.

But for today’s funeral of Brotton “gentle giant” Mick Collings, this proud band of biking brothers and sisters truly surpassed themselves.

From early on, it was clear that Redcar’s Kirkleatham Memorial Park and Crematorium would be way to small to fit everyone in.

And as the first of hundreds of bikes roared into the grounds, behind a sidecar bearing Mick’s coffin, it seemed like all roads had led to Redcar for this very special farewell.

With police controlling traffic on the crammed roads outside, the bikes just kept coming and coming - dream machines of every size, shape, model and engine size, ridden by largely leather-clad enthusiasts from all over the country.

And as Mick entered the chapel to the sounds of Born To Be Wild, his coffin draped in the flag of the Whitby 77 Motorcycle Club with a single red rose placed on top, the tone was set for a celebration of a life well lived, and a man much loved.

So many people attended, only a fraction could hear the service, even though it was broadcast on loud speakers.

But for many, it was enough just to be there in the grounds - an extended family paying its respects, swapping stories and fondly remembering their mate.

Inside the chapel, mourners heard tributes to Mick from the two motorcycle clubs he was a member of: Tees Riders and Whitby 77.

Carl, of Whitby 77, told how Mick had an “incredible appetite for people.” He said: “It didn’t matter where he went, he always returned with more mates.”

And his voice breaking with emotion, he concluded: “Mick - take the open road and ride like the wind because we all loved you.”

But there was humour, too - Boro fan Mick wouldn’t have wanted it any other way - with amusing tales of biking trips near and far, his “special” dance moves and his ability to fall asleep anywhere, anytime...and even in the middle of a conversation.

Mourners gather at Kirkleatham Crematorium

Bikers from across the country attended the funeral of Mick Collings

His favourite place? His garage, where he would tinker with the bikes he loved so much, including his beloved Triumph Thunderbird Storm - the bike of his dreams.

He could surprise you, too - who would have thought he’d have liked The Carpenters? In a service of contrast, their version of Close To You was played - but so was the pile-driving Thunderstruck by his favourite band, AC/DC.

For all the biking talk, Mick’s over-riding love was his family. Mourners heard of a loving and devoted son, dad, husband, grandad and brother - a good listener and someone who always looked on the brighter side of life. He wasn’t one to let things get him down for long.

And as the poignant service drew to a close and the strains of Freebird by Lynyrd Skynyrd filled the air, one thing became clear - even bikers cry.